On January 29, after a working meeting in London, the bishops of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in Western Europe announced a fundraising campaign to assist victims of Russian attacks on the civilian population of Ukraine.
According to the UGCC Department for Information, the church leaders recognized the bravery and commitment of Ukrainian defenders, medics, volunteers, and all those who support people enduring harsh winter conditions. They called for prayers for the liberation of Ukraine and for the establishment of a just peace.
"In these dramatic circumstances, when the enemy weaponizes the winter cold, we must not allow cold indifference to take root in our hearts. Such indifference could diminish our humanity and, through our passivity, inflict even greater suffering on our brothers and sisters in Ukraine. On the contrary, we aim to warm them with the love of God and our solidarity as fellow humans," the bishops' appeal states.
A special collection to assist those suffering from cold and hunger will be held on Meatfare Sunday, February 8. The donations collected will help address the consequences of the ongoing Russian attacks not only in the Ukrainian capital but also in other regions where the need is most urgent.